Call for Applications: Climate Risk Lab Fully Funded Data Science & Machine Learning Fellowship 2027 in Cape Town – MSc and First Class Honours Graduates Invited to Apply
Overview
The Climate Risk Lab is offering a fully funded, full-time Data Science and Machine Learning Fellowship based in Cape Town. The position is designed for recent MSc, PhD, and first-class Honours graduates who want to apply their quantitative skills to climate science, artificial intelligence, and real-world climate solutions. The fellowship is scheduled to begin in February 2027 and runs for one year, with a possibility of a one-year renewal based on performance. There is also potential for the role to develop into a PhD scholarship or Postdoc funding.
Who can apply
The opportunity is targeted at individuals with backgrounds in data science, machine learning, computer science, mathematics, statistics, econometrics, engineering, physics, and related quantitative fields. Applicants must hold or be in the final year of an MSc or first-class Honours degree, or possess a PhD background whose expertise aligns with the fellowship. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, a solid grounding in statistics or data science principles, and excellent written and oral communication skills. The organization encourages applications from historically underrepresented groups, including female-identifying people of colour.
What you get
Successful candidates receive competitive remuneration comparable to academic and market rates, determined by their experience. Fellows receive mentorship through pairing with a senior data scientist or postdoctoral researcher. The role provides opportunities to lead or co-lead research projects intended for peer-reviewed publication, toolkits, or datasets, as well as participation in working group meetings with international collaborators and conferences.
Requirements
Applicants must submit all materials in a single PDF file. The required documents include a curriculum vitae containing a statement about valid South African work or study permits and the names, positions, and email addresses of two professional referees. A cover letter explaining the candidate's fit, academic transcripts, code examples such as GitHub repositories or Jupyter notebooks, and a personal website or LinkedIn profile should also be provided if available.
How to apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via an online application form until the position is filled.
Key dates
The first reviews of candidates begin in October 2026, followed by technical interviews for shortlisted candidates. The fellowship is expected to begin in February 2027.